Animal neglect bill passes Senate

On Friday, the Senate approved SB 917, which would make the laws for animal neglect and animal cruelty more consistent in California, with a bipartisan vote of 27-10.

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Sen. Ted W. Lieu introduced the measure, which aims to prevent animal abuse and suffering, alleviate pressure placed on animal shelters and local governments and safeguard prospective pet owners by banning the sale of animals on street corners, boardwalks and other temporary retail venues while also increasing penalties for animal neglect.

Because current animal health and safety regulations do not apply to roadside sales, many of these young animals are mistreated, ill or diseased with no means of tracking the seller and holding him or her responsible.

Animal abuse is generally divided into two main categories: cruelty and neglect. Animal cruelty usually refers to a single act of harm, while neglect is inflicting pain and suffering over time. “Whether an animal is tortured or starved, too often the result is death,” says Lieu. “The penalties should be consistent.”